Jamaica Arts and Music Summer (JAMS)

Originated in 1996 at York College , JAMS is currently held during the first weekend in August along ten blocks of Jamaica Avenue , which are closed to vehicular traffic.  Attracting upwards of 150,000 people. The JAMS  Festival showcases the diverse cultural and ethnic talents, foods, arts & crafts of the Borough of Queens, promoting family and Youth centered activities, the work of Collaborative members, community partnerships and tourism for Jamaica. A highlight of the festival is the JAMS under the Stars evening concerts.  

2008 is here! Donate to our programs here

Arts in the Parks

Since 1995 CCJ has been drawing audiences throughout Queens to enjoy this six week Summer Children’s Program Series featuring a variety of free cultural and educational events and activities for children. Working with CityParksFoundation and various sponsors in 2007 CCJ has attracted over 4,382 children and their caregivers, averaging 650 per performance. Arts the Parks Line-Up 2007 click here

Holidays on the Avenue

Holidays on the Avenue is a community based marketing program started in 1996 held during the winter holiday season. Various events promoting Jamaica ’s ethnic diversity and supporting cultural development, pedestrian traffic, community awareness, appreciation and participation in holiday services offered by members of the Collaborative. Over 3,000 local residents participate in holiday activities. Our Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Sacred Music Concert Kicks-off Holiday roll-out of events sprinkled throughout the Jamaica . View 2007 Tree Lighting Ceremony in the CCJ Gallery.

Church Project

1997 CCJ, in partnership with Jamaica Center Arts and Learning (JCAL) and Black Spectrum Theatre Company took over leadership and management of the renovation and restoration of an historic 300-year-old church in Downtown Jamaica and its transformation into the $21 million dollar Jamaica Arts & Business Center - a performing arts and tourism center.  CCJ will be the permanent tenant of this multi-purpose facility, which will house a 400 seat, state of the art theatre, rehearsal and telecommunications and video conferencing, meeting spaces and the Jamaica Tourism center. Open to the community and businesses for exhibits, meetings and special event venues. Read more on the history of this project.

Youth Program (YES)

  The Youth Empowerment Structures (YES) Program works with and coaches young adults in navigating various life lessons. Design by Teens in the community to empower and groom there peers as candidates for social participation and preserving the future, by beginning within their communities. CCJ has selected four objectives crucial to a young adult’s success.